One of the things I enjoy most about running BillyWatson.tv is discovering artists I might otherwise have missed completely. Not every memorable concert involves a famous name, a large venue or a crowd of thousands. Sometimes the most rewarding evenings take place in small rooms with artists who deserve a much bigger audience than they currently have.
That was certainly the case when American singer-songwriter Chris Staples brought his latest world tour to Sneaky Pete’s in Edinburgh.
Sneaky Pete’s has long been one of my favourite venues. Small enough to create a genuine connection between performer and audience, it provides exactly the sort of environment where singer-songwriters can thrive. There is nowhere to hide in a venue this intimate. The songs either connect with people or they don’t.
Before Chris Staples took to the stage, the audience were treated to a set from Handsome Ghost. Support acts often face the challenge of winning over a room full of people who have come to see somebody else, but Handsome Ghost managed it with ease. Their songs were thoughtful, melodic and atmospheric, creating the perfect mood for the evening ahead.
One of the pleasures of attending gigs by artists like Chris Staples is the opportunity to experience music in its purest form. Without elaborate staging, giant video screens or distracting production, the focus remains exactly where it should be: on the songs themselves. It’s a reminder that a great songwriter armed with little more than a guitar can still hold an audience’s attention just as effectively as any arena spectacle.
Chris Staples has spent years quietly building a reputation as one of America’s finest contemporary singer-songwriters. His music combines introspective lyrics, understated melodies and a warmth that feels immediately inviting. While he may not enjoy the same profile as some of his peers, performances like this make a convincing case that he deserves far wider recognition.
What struck me most about the evening was the sense of intimacy. The audience listened carefully, the venue felt completely engaged and every song seemed to find exactly the audience it needed. There was none of the background chatter that can sometimes plague smaller gigs. Instead, people appeared genuinely invested in what was happening on stage.
Those are often the concerts that stay with you longest.
Looking back, this was another reminder that some of the best musical experiences happen far away from the spotlight. A small venue, a talented support act and a songwriter at the top of his game proved to be a winning combination.
The videos and photographs below capture some of the atmosphere from a wonderful evening at Sneaky Pete’s. If you’re unfamiliar with Chris Staples or Handsome Ghost, I would strongly recommend taking the time to explore their music. Nights like this are exactly why I continue searching for artists beyond the obvious headlines.
The Photos
Cheers!
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